Bristol City Council asks Zoning Commission to roll back data center rules
The Bristol City Council unanimously requested that the Zoning Commission revise its regulations to reduce the maximum size of data centers allowed and require special permits for smaller facilities. This action comes in response to significant public concern about the environmental, noise, and health impacts of potential data center development in the city. The Zoning Commission is expected to address the request in August.
In response to widespread public concern, the Bristol City Council unanimously approved a motion formally requesting the city's Zoning Commission to amend local regulations concerning data centers. Councilor Susan Tyler noted that data centers have become a top concern for constituents, particularly after zoning changes adopted in December 2025 inadvertently "opened the door" for large facilities.
Mayor Ellen Zoppo-Sassu led the initiative, asking the council to request a text amendment to reduce the maximum permitted gross floor area of data centers within industrial and industrial park zoning districts. The aim is to ensure future data center development aligns with Bristol's land use goals, infrastructure capacity, and community well-being. The council also approved amendments proposed by Tyler, calling for micro cloud technology centers under 15,000 square feet to require special permit applications and for regulations to consider limiting the distance between data centers. An 11,000-square-foot data center already approved by the Connecticut Siting Council is currently progressing through Bristol's regulatory process and is expected to be approved under existing rules.
During public commentary, several residents voiced strong opposition. Scarlett Fulton expressed dismay at the prospect of large data centers in Bristol, citing concerns about water depletion, job loss, and potential "harmful social and physical harm," linking them to a "national crisis." Sarah Pagano highlighted health concerns from low-frequency noise generated by even small data centers, listing symptoms like sleep disturbances, headaches, and anxiety. Another resident, J.C., raised environmental concerns about the Riverside project, including river contamination, stormwater runoff, noise, energy, water usage, and toxins, emphasizing that economic growth should not compromise residents' health. Daniel Corcoran framed the issue as part of a "techno-industrial complex" driven by "billionaire oligarchs." The Zoning Commission is anticipated to review the council
’s motion in August.